How Members Of The Norway Royal Family Are The Biggest Rebels Of Them All

The British Royal Family may be the most famous one, but that doesn’t mean the Windsors are the most interesting European royals. Their family drama is splattered throughout major news sites, but there are still quite a few generational dynasties inhabiting castles across the continent with plenty of spectacles that don’t always make the news. One of the coolest unknown monarchies is Norway's Royal Family.

Ancient dynasty

Monarchs have been in control of Norway since 872, and in 1905, the citizens finally had a chance to pick their ruler: King Haakon VII. Before being named king, his civilian name was Christian Frederik Carl Georg Valdemar Axel. We’re not sure why he had to change it — his original name wasn't complicated at all.

Modern leaders

The current state heads are King Harald and his wife, Queen Sonja. Like the United Kingdom, Norway has a constitutional monarchy in which the monarchs are ceremonial figureheads. Parliament has most of the power to make decisions and is elected by Norwegians.

The castle

Norway’s Royal Family lives at The Royal Palace in Oslo. The castle’s 173 rooms give them plenty of space to spread out. It was originally built for King Carl Johan to live in, but he died before the construction was finished. Lord Chamberlain and his family were the first Norwegian royals to reside there.

King Harald is active

King Harald may be in his '80s, but he still lives a busy life. In his younger days (1964, 1968, and 1972), he sailed in three different Olympic games for his country. And at 84 years old, his age doesn’t keep him from the water. Despite the potentially dangerous conditions, the monarch continues to set sail.